Jewelry to Obsess Over (and Won't Bust the Budget!)

These days, it's hard to come by handmade jewelry that looks expensive but won't break the bank. Let me introduce you to a new jewelry designer who feels exactly the same way - Monica Maurer of Monica Ann Designs.

Monica's a self-taught jewelry designer currently residing in Atlanta. She began making her own jewelry after she asked a local artisan to create a custom piece for her, and was quoted $60. To a young student, that's like forking over your dinner money for the next two weeks. So Monica took matters into her own hands and now produces a line of high-quality, handmade jewelry at extremely reasonable prices.

As a designer, Monica says, her goal is to provide gorgeous, affordable jewelry for all types of women.

Many of her pieces involve showcasing gorgeous stones, like these.

Layla Earrings in Green Onyx, $23

Layla Earrings in Alice Blue, $23

Others feature intricate metal work.

Gold Wild Orchid Necklace, $31


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Kaci Earrings in Silver, $22



And if you don't see a piece that fits you to a "T?" Monica will custom design it for you!

For more of her fabulous designs, check out Monica's Etsy store!

What do you think of these designs? Are you into the stone jewelry trend?